Some people find using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques helpful in managing psychosis and distress. Why not try this self help guide based on the principles of CBT. http://www.getselfhelp.co.uk/psychosis.htm

Some people have told us that compassionate responses to voices useful – for example saying “thank you but your input isn’t needed just now”. What do you find helps?

Some people have told us that establishing a daily routine helps them cope with worrying. What would you like your daily routine to be?

Sharing how you feel with someone can be really hard, take a lot of courage but can really help. Can you think of someone you could share your feelings with?

Feeling anxious can feel like a real strain: Take a minute to think with kindness how you are holding your body just now. Just being aware can help with relaxation.

People have said that scheduling a worry time each day can increase control and reduce stress: How about setting aside a time for worrying each day?

Worrying can feel uncontrollable: How about setting aside a time for worrying each day?

Don’t think about “beating” or “curing” anxiety. Think about living with it, alongside it, accepting it and thriving with it.

Worrying: sometimes a worry box might help. Write down your worries and post them in the box to deal with them later.

Worrying can stop you from getting to sleep. Use a worry box - write down your worries and post them in the box to deal with them tomorrow.

Taking control of your breathing can help us feel more control. Try this calming technique – get comfortable inhale for the count of 4, pause for the count of 2 and release for the count of 6

Take a moment to notice with kindness what your breathing is like. Is it fast and shallow? Try this calming technique – get comfortable inhale for the count of 4, pause for the count of 2 and release for the count of 6

Breathing out for longer than you breath in naturally relaxes your body. Try noticing with kindness your breathing

Sometimes worrying can be helpful – have you considered listing the advantages and disadvantages of worrying?

Everyone has a story. Writing it down can help you in many different ways. Write to Recovery is a website from the Scottish Recovery Network where you are supported to share experiences in writing. You can also read what other people have written. http://www.writetorecovery.net/

‘In order to recover from psychosis you need a perspective of hope and possibility to change.’ Professor of Psychiatry, Jim van Os. Watch his short film ‘Five phases of recovery’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DdiPK3-K5is